Attention Runners, a pre-race email will be arriving in your inboxes next week!
The Countdown Begins!
Mas Locos!
Only three weeks remain when together as one, we come to create hope and peace, celebrating the legacy and vision of El Caballo Blanco: Running Free with the Raramuri in the majestic mountains of Las Barrancas Del Cobre.
Our family of Mas Locos now represent 18 countries world-wide, 121 brave athletes, ready to dance along the Canyon trails of La Sierra Madre.
However, it's with heavy hearts we share the tragic news of the loss of our strongest supporter, a friend of El Caballo Blanco, a leader of great honor. On February 7, El Presidente of Urique, Leobardo Diaz Estrada, died of injuries received from a vehicle accident along the canyon roads leading into Urique.
In November, his Administration and the people of Urique, honored the life of Micah, with a public, memorial service. Presidente Diaz, led a musical procession into the Canyons, as Micah's love, La Mariposa, Maria and friends brought Micah's ashes to a peaceful resting place, overlooking the flowing, sparkling river.
Presidente Diaz, was instrumental in recognizing 13 years of running the Ultramaraton, Caballo Blanco, as a memorial tribute to Micah's and Urique's respect for the Raramuri runners. He graciously extended to us the loving support of his Administration, laying the foundation of a lasting partnership of complete harmony. May his generous spirit, now rest in peace.
We are thankful for the dedication of our friends, who are laying the groundwork of many pre-race efforts. Our Canadian, Mas Loco, Flint Bourdeau, arrived in Chihuahua this week to assist Diego Rhodes, the Proprietor of Hotel Rancho Del Oso, transport race supplies, blankets, camping equipment, for the international runners. As a messenger, Flint will travel into many pueblos, businesses and schools of the Raramuri, delivering race posters, and official Convocatorias (Invitations) to our friends of Running People. Flint will also assist Keith Ramsey, Owner of Entre Amigos Hostel and Campground, in managing the lodging of many travelers and runners, resting along his lush, organic gardens.
Urique's Director of Tourism, Cecy Villalobos is instrumental in promoting the race among the State of Chihuahua, and throughout Mexico. She is coordinating all official race ceremonies, and planning the shared, ceremonial dinner between the International runners and Raramuri families on Friday evening, before the race. Cecy is also involved with the local school teachers and students of La Sierra, in coordinating our Inaugural, "La Corrida de los Caballitos", (The Little Pony Race).
As the news of this historical event spreads, the magic continues to grow! Every child who enters, and runs free, is a winner! Our sincere gratitude for our generous sponsors:
Marathon Kids, P.F. Chang's, The Alsea Group (P.F. Chang's partners of Mexico), Forward Packaging, and Staples . These organizations are providing the children with race bags and shirts, finisher medals, shoes, and assorted school supplies.
Dona Tita Quintana is diligently organizing meals, and lodging for guests staying, and dining in Urique. Her enthusiasm, and genuine passion for the spirit of the race, is contagious.
Prospero Torres, his wife Sabina, and family, are clearing the trails of the race course, leading to their ranch at Los Alisos. Along with Tita, Prospero was one of Micah's original race sponsors, who always offers the sweet fruits of his orchard, freshly ground pinole, and hand patted tortillas. He proudly shares memories of his years of Trail Guide work throughout Las Barrancas with his friend, El Caballo Blanco.
We encourage Mas Locos to share the spirit of Korima to the beautiful families of Las Barrancas, giving freely from one's heart, with out expectations of return, or of the results of gratitude for the simple act of giving. Our sincere thanks go to the Mas Locos who have volunteered to transport additional race supplies, runner shirts, food, equipment, and tools. Our special thanks go to Michael and Kimberly Miller, for their offer to bring across the border, our beloved Ghost Dog, the unforgettable, Guadajuko True.
How symbolic, and truly inspiring to know that the official color for the Municipal of Urique, is Green. We will soon celebrate in the bright, richness of our journey. Printed on the government of Urique's Seal: "Trabajar con Humildad por El Bienestar y La Unidad de los Uriqueness."
Gracias
Josue y Maria - RD's
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